Rescuing Dogs and Humans

A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.

Most agree with American humourist Josh Billings, but how many owe our lives, our mental recovery, even our future to dogs who humans rejected?

Over the past 8 years, Angela and Roger Weeks from PTSD Dogs Australia have rescued 8 unwanted dogs. With a wonderful band of volunteers, they have trained them to rescue their new human partners – all Veterans or First Responders suffering PTSD with gentleness, intuition and unconditional love.

The local charity has been nominated as a 2025 finalist for the King’s Trust Awards Australia in the Commonwealth Business of the Year Award category, which recognises veteran and family entrepreneurs. It is also a finalist in the Social Impact category for the upcoming Sunshine Coast Business Awards.

Angela said, “We pour our souls into this endeavour, driven by the belief that every dog deserves a second chance and every human deserves a loyal companion. Together, we are transforming lives, one rescue dog at a time.”

It costs $40,000 to train one dog from puppy to graduation. Now with up to 10 dogs in training, and relocation to a new property at Cooroibah to undertake a huge purpose-built centre, the couple is reaching out for help.

The organisation urgently needs foster carers for young dogs while in training. Full support, food, vet costs and training equipment are all provided. Mistakenly, people often fear losing contact when the dog goes to its new “person,” but Angela says they remain as family, taking part in training, enjoying social outings, assisting with the adjustment and staying connected. “Being a foster educator is life changing for you and your rescue dog,” said Angela.

Volunteers are also urgently needed with so much happening, whether helping with dogs, training, grooming, gardening, maintenance, cleaning or renovating the multi-purpose building. One area with huge roller doors, sales room, and giant TV will become a seminar room with indoor and outdoor training areas. Further down, help is needed to provide dog rest crates, install a window, shelving, dog food storage/fridges, preparation facilities, and a heavy-duty washing machine and dryer. Of course, donations always receive grateful thanks and tail wags.

PTSD Dogs Australia recently announced the expansion of its acclaimed Train Your Own program, to all Australians living with psychiatric conditions. They hope to run the program onsite now the large patio is covered and cemented, which will empower individuals to train their own assistance dog.

Participants in the program are provided with a range of valuable resources and support to ensure their success and wellbeing. They receive comprehensive dog training guidance, which includes expert behavioural and assistance dog instruction, along with resources tailored to train a psychiatric assistance dog that meets each individual's unique needs. Additionally, participants benefit from ongoing support. They have access to a heart-driven, caring community and professional trainers who are there to assist them throughout their entire journey, from novice to certified to retired. The program offers empowerment and independence, where participants are given the opportunity to take an active role in their own healing, recovery and daily well-being. This holistic approach ensures that they are not only supported but also empowered to lead fulfilling lives.

Fundraising and events are vital. Roger hopes people will support its upcoming event – The Face Off – to be held on World Mental Health Day on 10 October at 5.30pm at the Maroochy Golf Club, Bli Bli. Volunteers are asked to raise sponsors and shave off beards, moustaches or hair or go blue, with all donations aiding PTSD Dogs Australia. Tickets: events.humantix.com or visit: ptsddogs.org.au. Eileen Walder